Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS10

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic ZS10, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the ZS10 (14MP) is fairly well matched and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was brought out 13 months later than the ZS10 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a thorough comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up against the ZS10 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS10. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS10 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS features outer dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS10 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 219 grams (0.48 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic ZS10 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS against the ZS10.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS10 is 89 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to see the difference between sensor measurements just by checking technical specs. The graphic here will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS10.

As you have seen, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to give you extra detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop images far more aggressively. The fresher SZ-31MR iHS will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.